Diu, Jan 7 (NationPress) Pravin Kumari’s remarkable journey has been characterized by determination and perseverance — beginning with her defiance against longstanding social norms in a secluded village of Himachal Pradesh, and now standing as the final barrier on the football pitch.

This natural warrior, aged 26, has triumphed over societal stigma, limited resources, and personal hurdles to emerge as a prominent figure in women's football within Himachal Pradesh.

During the ongoing Khelo India Beach Games 2026 at Ghoghla Beach in Diu, it was Pravin’s tenacity and unwillingness to surrender — despite enduring a painful leg injury — that ultimately led to Himachal Pradesh's stunning comeback victory against the hosts Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (DNH&DD) in their inaugural women’s Beach Soccer encounter on Monday.

Pravin made several crucial saves in the third quarter to thwart the hosts from extending their advantage, before sparking a late rally that enabled Himachal Pradesh to secure a 7-5 triumph.

Originating from Khatgaon village in Una district, Pravin is the youngest of three siblings, born to a daily-wage mason. Now the primary breadwinner for her family, she balances her football passion with her role as a physical education teacher at a private school in Una, ensuring a steady income while chasing her athletic dreams.

Her entry into football was anything but straightforward. In an environment where girls were often dissuaded from engaging in sports, Pravin began training with boys, disregarding societal condemnation and the absence of structured coaching. Over time, her unwavering resolve attracted other girls to the field. What commenced as an informal and resource-limited group gradually transformed into a cohesive team fueled by belief and tenacity.

“Life isn’t simple, especially for a girl aspiring to engage in sports. A decade ago, when I started training, our village primarily encouraged boys. Girls had no place. I began training with boys, but eventually, I managed to get a few more girls to join. Although we lacked formal training and consistency, we aimed to pave the way for the next generation of girls, and slowly things are coming together. Now we have a full team, and we regularly compete in local tournaments,” Pravin expressed to SAI Media.

Himachal Pradesh’s participation at the Khelo India Beach Games also represented its first significant foray into Beach Soccer. The team practiced for around 10 days on a specially designed sand surface, but adapting to genuine beach conditions — which are faster-paced and lead to quicker fatigue — posed a new challenge.

Despite these obstacles, Himachal Pradesh held their own against the hosts in the initial two quarters, with the score tied at 4-4. The team fell behind after Pravin suffered a leg injury and had to leave the field. However, with rolling substitutions allowed in Beach Soccer, her return was crucial. She organized the defense, motivated her teammates, and consistently thwarted DNH&DD, allowing Himachal Pradesh to regain control.

“The injury occurred at a critical moment, and we nearly squandered our initial lead, but credit to the girls for bouncing back at the right time. Overall we are pleased with the performance, but this is merely the beginning, and we must maintain the momentum now,” Pravin stated.